EIC Pathfinder Open is a Horizon Europe call under the European Innovation Council (EIC) that funds early‑stage, science‑towards‑technology research aimed at radically new future technologies. It targets projects at low Technology Readiness Levels (TRL 1–4), supporting activities such as exploratory research, concept validation, modelling, lab‑scale experiments and first integrated proof‑of‑principle demonstrations. Three key components – a transformative new technology, clear advance to ‘state-of-the art’, ‘high-risk/high-gain’ research.
The programme encourages early‑career researchers, high‑tech SMEs/start‑ups, and female researchers, and promotes gender balance. Successful projects further gain access to the EIC’s Business Acceleration Services, networking with EIC Programme Managers and the possibility to access Booster Grants (up to EUR 50 000), apply for EIC Transition, and use Fast Track to EIC Accelerator for innovation‑driven SMEs.
The EIC considers proposals with a requested contribution of up to EUR 4 million as appropriate, although larger amounts may be requested if duly justified.
Call deadline: 12 May 2026, 17:00 (Brussels local time)
For the full call document click here.